Nomads’ Own Kelly Russell Announces Retirement from International Rugby

This week, one of Canada’s greatest-ever test rugby players officially retired from both the national 15s and sevens programs. Longtime Toronto Nomad Kelly Russell leaves the national side following an unprecedented career in which she helped lead women’s rugby in Canada to never-before-seen heights.

“Right now, it feels right for me. I’m thankful I’m doing it on my own terms and I’m just so grateful for all the people who helped me throughout my career,” said Russell in her official statement through Rugby Canada.

Kelly Russell, with mother Judy and sister Laura.

“The Toronto Nomads and the Ontario club rugby system and the entire Ontario rugby union were big parts of my career and then, obviously, Rugby Canada. My family, my teammates and my friends have all been so supportive over the years and I can’t thank them enough. As for my coaches, I feel that I’ve learned something from every single one of them along the way. They instilled values in me within rugby but also within life.

“Yes, I love the game and love playing the game, but I’m happy where I’m at right now and what I’ve done.”

Toronto Nomads Rugby Club

One of six Toronto rugby clubs who founded the TRU and ORU in 1950. We provide a complete range of rugby programs and teams for girls, boys, women and men of all ages from kindergarten to senior women and men, and are the only city-based club offering year-round rugby.

We train in Toronto's west end. In the summer, juniors at Eglinton Flats, seniors at Oakwood Collegiate. Our winter home is Lamport Stadium. Senior home games are at Fletcher's Fields (map), the Home of Ontario Rugby.